Burnet County – The Heart of Hill Country
Burnet County, nestled in the Texas Hill Country, offers a picturesque setting with rolling hills, charming towns, and abundant natural beauty. This county is known for its friendly atmosphere, affordable cost of living, and excellent quality of life.Towns and Suburbs in Burnet County
- Burnet: The county seat, Burnet, is a historic town with a charming downtown district filled with antique shops, boutiques, and art galleries. It’s also home to the Burnet County Courthouse, a beautiful Victorian-style building.
- Marble Falls: Located on the Colorado River, Marble Falls is a popular tourist destination known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. It offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions.
- Kingsland: This small town is situated on Lake Lyndon B. Johnson, offering stunning views and plenty of water activities. Kingsland is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and swimming.
- Spicewood: Located on Lake Travis, Spicewood is a popular residential community known for its beautiful scenery and upscale homes. It offers a variety of amenities, including golf courses, marinas, and restaurants.
- Briggs: A small town located in the western part of Burnet County, Briggs offers a peaceful and rural setting. It’s a great place to enjoy the outdoors and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Horseshoe Bay: This resort community is located on Lake Lyndon B. Johnson and offers a variety of amenities, including golf courses, marinas, and spas. Horseshoe Bay is a popular destination for retirees and vacationers.
Things to Do in Burnet County
- Explore the Texas Hill Country: Hike, bike, or horseback ride through the scenic countryside.
- Visit Lake Lyndon B. Johnson: Enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, or simply relax on the beach.
- Explore the Burnet County Courthouse: Take a tour of this historic building and learn about the county’s history.
- Visit the Highland Lakes Wine Trail: Sample local wines at several wineries in the area.
- Attend the Burnet County Fair and Rodeo: Enjoy live music, food, and entertainment at this annual event.
Burnet County, nestled in the picturesque Texas Hill Country, is a premier destination known for its stunning natural landscapes, historic towns, and vibrant recreational opportunities. Located just northwest of Austin and stretching across the Llano Uplift, Burnet County offers an authentic Texas experience with rolling hills, sparkling lakes, and a friendly, welcoming community.
Historical Roots of Burnet County
Established in 1852 and named after David Gouverneur Burnet, the first interim president of the Republic of Texas, Burnet County boasts a rich heritage that reflects the pioneering spirit of Central Texas. The county’s historic towns like Burnet, Marble Falls, and Lampasas showcase charming architecture, early frontier sites, and preserved landmarks such as the Burnet County Courthouse and historic post offices. The legacy of Native American tribes, early settlers, and Texas Rangers is celebrated throughout local museums and annual cultural festivals.
Key Attractions and Outdoor Activities
Burnet County’s location in the Hill Country makes it a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers:
- Inks Lake State Park: A favorite spot offering camping, hiking, fishing, and boating on the crystal-clear waters of Inks Lake, set amidst scenic hilltop views and limestone cliffs.
- Longhorn Cavern State Park: Explore stunning underground formations in this unique Texas cave, a designated National Natural Landmark located near Burnet city. Guided tours showcase spectacular stalactites and stalagmites formed over millions of years.
- Lake LBJ: Part of the Highland Lakes chain, Lake LBJ provides year-round water sports including boating, jet skiing, and fishing, with numerous waterfront parks and resorts around Marble Falls.
- Historic Downtown Burnet: Featuring local shops, art galleries, and eateries, downtown Burnet is a great place to explore authentic Texas culture and hospitality.
- Hamilton Creek Park: Offers swimming, hiking trails, and picnic areas surrounded by the natural beauty of the Hill Country.
Local Amenities and Community Life
Burnet County’s communities provide a blend of small-town charm and modern conveniences. Residents enjoy quality schools, healthcare centers, retail shops, and dining options featuring Texas Hill Country flavors. The county hosts community events such as the Burnet County Fair and the Bluebonnet Festival, known for celebrating Texas wildflowers and local artisans.
Nature and Scenic Beauty
Burnet County’s landscape is characterized by rugged hills, expansive oak and cedar forests, and sparkling waterways that create a diverse and thriving ecosystem. The region is part of the larger Texas Hill Country wine region, offering nearby vineyards and tasting rooms for wine enthusiasts. Outdoor activities like hiking along the Devil’s Backbone trail or bird-watching in the Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge bring visitors close to Texas’s natural wonders.
Proximity and Accessibility
Located approximately 50 miles northwest of downtown Austin, Burnet County is easily accessible via US Highway 281 and State Highway 29, making it a perfect weekend getaway or relocation choice for those seeking tranquility near the city. Its strategic position within the Highland Lakes region also connects it to neighboring counties including Llano, Blanco, and Travis.
Nearby Areas
Travis county
Temple
Killeen
Bell County
Conclusion
Burnet County, Texas, represents the quintessential Hill Country lifestyle—rich in history, surrounded by natural beauty, and filled with recreational options for all ages. Whether enjoying water sports on Lake LBJ, exploring underground caves, visiting local festivals, or simply relaxing in a charming small town, Burnet County provides an authentic Texas experience infused with scenic charm and vibrant community spirit.
